Listy VonListerstein: The Art of Intentional Listing

Let’s be honest, there are days when all I crave is pure relaxation and quality time with my loved ones – toss in Burger, Clara, and John, and I’m absolutely swooning with happiness. But for those of you who’ve been patiently requesting an updated look at our infamous “Listy” (our ongoing home project checklist), the wait is finally over! It’s been a while since we last shared our comprehensive to-do list back in November, so this update is definitely long overdue. My hope is that by reviewing everything we’ve managed to tackle since then, we can all feel a real sense of accomplishment. Picture me making enthusiastic, Zoro-esque slicing sounds with every crossed-off item – Teddy, our furry friend, finds it utterly hilarious!

The tradition of these detailed project posts began when readers frequently asked how we managed to organize the multitude of tasks on our home improvement journey. My simple explanation was that we maintain one continuous, evolving document – a living blueprint, if you will – that we update diligently as we progress. The overwhelming response was, “You have to share it!” And so, we did. Now, three or four times a year, we pull back the curtain on our home’s evolution. This ritual allows us to clearly chart our future course and, just as importantly, to pause and truly appreciate the milestones we’ve already achieved. A wonderful side effect of this process is that seeing all those yet-to-be-tackled bullet points often sparks new ideas, helping us brainstorm and strategically plan our next set of DIY projects. Plus, it gives us a fantastic excuse to capture some fresh, updated photos, like these charming spring outdoor shots, showcasing the tangible results of our hard work.

The Front Yard Transformation (20% Complete)

Our vision for the front yard is to create a welcoming, well-maintained, and visually stunning entryway that enhances our home’s curb appeal. It’s a significant undertaking, but the progress, albeit 20% complete, is truly satisfying:

• Successfully removed several trees identified by an arborist and home inspector as dead, decaying, or diseased beyond repair, ensuring the safety and health of our landscape.
• Completed the essential task of repainting all exterior siding and trim, addressing peeling paint and minor rot, which dramatically refreshed the home’s facade.
• Initiated the removal of rapidly spreading ground cover. While we still have some mulch beds requiring attention, the areas we’ve already graded and seeded are now wonderfully groundcover-free, ready for new life.
• Aerated, leveled, and seeded the yard, laying the groundwork for a lush, healthy lawn.
• Future task: Design and create distinct planting beds along the front of the house, incorporating beautiful mulch and diverse plant selections to add color and texture.
• Future task: Strategically transplant some of the currently crowded and overlapping boxwoods from either side of the portico. We’re considering relocating them to the backyard or integrating them into other new planting beds in the front.
• Future task: Replace the old, cracked concrete walkway that leads from the driveway to the front door. Our plan is to introduce gentle curves and border it with attractive planting beds on both sides for a more inviting approach.
• Future task: Integrate elegant hardscaping elements around the front entrance. We’re particularly inspired by this inspiring home’s landscaping, and envision adding some raised stone beds to define spaces and add architectural interest.
• Future task: Plant a few beautiful green dwarf maples. This was a beloved feature in our previous home (as seen under the right-side window in this post), and we’re excited to bring that charm here.
• Future task: Install low, curved brick borders, subtly wired with lights, on both sides of the driveway. Several nearby homes feature these, and we adore the sophisticated, illuminated look they provide.
• Future task: Get the driveway professionally paved to complete the updated entrance.

The Portico Project (30% Complete)

The portico, as the immediate entrance to our home, deserved special attention to create a welcoming first impression. We’ve made good headway, with 30% of the work complete:

• Successfully repainted the entire portico and its sidelights, eliminating the prevalent peeling paint and restoring a fresh, clean look.
• Gave the front door a vibrant new coat of paint, instantly boosting its appeal and creating a focal point.
• Future task: Transform the currently low portico ceiling by arching it. We’ve seen a beautiful example just up the street with an arched ceiling and a stunning hanging lantern, and we’re eager to replicate that elegant touch.
• Future task: Once the portico ceiling is arched (or perhaps even before, if the design allows), we plan to paint and panel the front triangular gable. The existing gray triangle feels a bit flat, and we envision a more refined finish.
• Future task: Enhance the entrance with decorative planters, a new double-wide door mat, and upgraded porch lighting to complete the refreshed look.

Garage Overhaul (3% Complete)

Our garage is more than just a place to park; it’s destined to become a highly functional workshop and organized storage hub. We’ve barely scratched the surface here, currently at 3% completion, but the plans are extensive:

• We attempted to replace the tiny, rusty light fixtures above the garage doors. While a step was taken, we’re not entirely satisfied with the new ones, hence the minimal completion percentage. We may replace them again for a better fit.
• Future task: Repaint the garage doors and install new, substantial hardware to give them a more robust and attractive appearance.
• Future task: Construct a charming pergola over the double garage doors, intending to have climbing vines elegantly creep over it, adding natural beauty and architectural flair.
• Future task: Finish the interior of the garage by installing drywall. This will allow us to create a dedicated workshop area on one side and organized storage around the perimeter, complete with pegboards, shelving for paints, and tool storage.
• Future task: Repurpose our old kitchen cabinets in the garage. They have some minor dings on the doors and frames but would be perfectly functional and robust for garage storage.
• Future task: Revamp the four steps leading from the garage into the kitchen. We’re considering either removing the old carpeting and painting them or undertaking a complete rebuild for improved safety and aesthetics.
• Future task: Build a mobile box on casters specifically for scrap wood storage in the garage. We desperately need a system to keep it tidy and easily accessible, rather than scattered.
• Creative idea: Perhaps acquire some vintage lockers, paint them in fun, vibrant colors, and remove some of the doors to create open, stylish storage solutions (we absolutely love these inspiring examples!).
• Future task: Explore adding plumbing for a utility sink in the garage. A dedicated sink in our workshop area has always been a long-held dream.

Foyer First Impressions (80% Complete)

The foyer sets the tone for our entire home, and we’ve put significant effort into transforming it into a bright, open, and inviting space. With 80% of the work completed, the difference is remarkable:

• Successfully removed the doors that previously obstructed the flow into the kitchen and, more importantly, blocked the beautiful view out to the back windows (which will eventually become elegant French doors).
• Repainted the original blue trim, doors, and sidelights, transitioning to a crisp, modern palette.
• Carefully removed all the old wallpaper and repainted the walls, instantly brightening the space.
• Replaced the outdated foyer light fixture with a more contemporary and stylish option.
• Converted an existing extra toy closet in the foyer into a functional and organized craft and toy closet specifically for Clara, our daughter.
• Gave the foyer ceiling a fresh coat of paint, completing the overall refreshed look.
• Finally addressed the troublesome grout issues that had been a persistent source of frustration, restoring uniformity to the floor.
• Future task: Evaluate the existing tile. Replacement will only occur if it proves unsalvageable, as there are a few areas that are quite worn.
• Future task: Transform the other foyer closet into a highly efficient shoe and coat closet, incorporating custom built-ins for optimal organization and functionality.

Stairway to Serenity (90% Complete)

Our stairway is now a stunning focal point, bridging our home’s levels with elegance and character. We are thrilled to be 90% complete with this significant renovation:

• Painstakingly removed the old, worn carpet from the wooden stairs, revealing their natural beauty.
• Repainted the original blue railing spindles and trim, giving them a clean, updated finish.
• Stained the top rails a rich, dark color to perfectly complement our new stair runner.
• Refreshed the walls and ceiling with new paint, creating a cohesive and bright aesthetic.
• Carefully painted each stair riser, adding definition and a polished look.
• Installed a beautiful new striped runner, complete with a supportive rug pad underneath, adding comfort, style, and safety.
• Future task: Curate and hang a collection of art along the stairwell to personalize the space and add visual interest.
• Future task: Explore the possibility of installing a grand chandelier overhead. Given the lofted ceiling above the top of the stairs, a significant light fixture could create a breathtaking statement.

Half Bathroom Refresh (35% Complete)

Even small spaces like a half bathroom can make a big impact. We’ve completed Phase 1 of its transformation, bringing it to 35% completion, focusing on budget-friendly updates that deliver significant aesthetic improvements:

• Removed all the outdated wallpaper, immediately modernizing the space.
• Repainted all the existing blue trim and the door, switching to a fresh, neutral tone.
• Upgraded the door hardware and hinges, adding a subtle touch of refinement.
• Gave the walls a fresh coat of paint, instantly brightening the room.
• Replaced the old mirror with a larger, higher one. Now, John can see more than just his shoulders, which is a major win!
• Transformed the vanity with new paint, using an odor-blocking primer to ensure a fresh start.
• Upgraded the lighting fixture, enhancing both functionality and ambiance.
• Replaced the leaky faucet, a practical fix that also improved the vanity’s look.
• Future task (Phase 2): Replace the entire vanity and the unique seashell sink. We adopt a philosophy of living with kitchens and bathrooms for at least a year after smaller budget-friendly updates before undertaking major gut renovations. This approach helps us truly understand how we use the space, allowing us to save for thoughtful, regret-free investments (read more on this here, regarding our phased project approach).
• Future task (Phase 2): Consider replacing the unsalvageable tile floor.
• Exciting idea (Phase 2): Given that this house is practically covered in old wallpaper, here’s a shocker – we’re actually contemplating adding some cool new wallpaper! Since there’s no tub or shower, it’s a great opportunity for a bold statement. Perhaps a sophisticated grasscloth or something charming like this or this unique design? It could be a lot of fun, or we might opt for a striking tiled accent wall.

Dining Room Ambitions (10% Complete)

Our dining room, a space for shared meals and cherished memories, is currently at 10% completion. We’ve started with foundational work and are eager to infuse it with modern elegance:

• Thoroughly cleaned and resealed the existing wood floors, bringing back their natural luster.
• Future task: Upgrade the built-in cabinetry. This involves deciding whether to remove the decorative scrolly tops, extend them to the ceiling for a grander look, and paint them a crisp white to brighten the room.
• Future task: Repaint all of the remaining blue trim, transitioning to a more contemporary color scheme.
• Successfully removed the old wallpaper, immediately refreshing the room’s aesthetic.
• Future task: Repaint the walls, choosing a color that harmonizes with our updated vision for the space.
• Future task: Upgrade the lighting fixtures and select new curtains to enhance the room’s ambiance and style.
• Future task: Introduce new furniture, consider a beautiful rug, and hang art to complete the dining room’s design and functionality.

Living Room Revival (10% Complete)

The living room, the heart of our home for relaxation and gathering, is undergoing a significant transformation. We’re at 10% completion, having tackled some initial crucial steps:

• Cleaned and resealed the beautiful wood floors, bringing them back to life.
• Primed and painted the vibrant pink walls, preparing the canvas for our new design.
• Removed the old, heavy curtains, instantly opening up the space.
• Whitewashed the brick fireplace wall, creating a lighter, more modern focal point.
• Future task: Prime and paint the thick woodwork that wraps around the bottom half of the room’s walls. We absolutely adore this architectural feature and believe it will look truly gorgeous in a crisp white.
• Future task: Decide on the perfect window treatments – perhaps a combination of bamboo blinds and elegant curtains, or stylish printed Roman shades?
• Future task: Install additional recessed lights to ensure the room is evenly and beautifully illuminated, as currently there are only three near the fireplace.
• Future task: Transform the existing overhead beams into a sophisticated coffered ceiling, drawing inspiration from this elegant design.
• Future task: Build or find a large, built-in-looking cabinet to elegantly house our television, integrating it seamlessly into the room’s design.
• Future task (Phase 2): After we’ve saved up, install gas logs in the fireplace for cozy, convenient warmth.
• Future task (Phase 2): Consider adding stacked stone or built-in molding around the fireplace for an even more refined and custom look.

Office Oasis (20% Complete)

Our office is more than just a workspace; it’s a creative hub for both us and the kids. We’ve completed 20% of its transformation, focusing on creating a productive and inspiring environment:

• Removed the old curtains, allowing more natural light to flood the room.
• Cleaned and resealed the wood floors, restoring their beauty.
• Painted all the pervasive blue trim, baseboards, and crown molding. This was a monumental task, considering the 66 window mullions – quite the undertaking!
• Gave the walls and ceiling a fresh coat of paint, instantly brightening the space.
• Installed a double desk that John and I can share, a project we’re about halfway through, hence the partial cross-out. This is central to our shared workspace.
• Future task: Incorporate more strategic storage solutions, such as a bookcase, a dedicated file cabinet, and a craft/photography zone, to keep everything organized.
• Future task: Invest in comfortable and ergonomic desk chairs for both of us.
• Future task: Add curtains or other window treatments to provide privacy and control light.
• Future task: Hang art and create a dynamic brainstorm zone on the walls, perhaps with a bulletin board or a chalkboard for creative ideas.
• Future task: Ensure there’s a well-defined and engaging “kid zone” for Clara and Teddy. We have a table for them, but we want to further update and enhance this area.
• Future task: Introduce a large, cozy rug to add warmth and define the space.
• Brought in two large potted plants, like lemon trees or fiddle leaf figs, to add natural greenery and life to the room.

Kitchen Evolution (35% Complete)

Our kitchen, the true heart of the home, is currently in Phase 1 of its renovation, sitting at 35% completion. We’re focusing on impactful, budget-friendly updates before diving into a full-scale overhaul:

• Removed the old curtains, allowing more light and openness.
• Stripped away all the existing wallpaper, giving the walls a clean slate.
• Removed the old shelves flanking the sink window and installed new, more functional shelving in their place.
• Moved the cabinet situated above the fridge forward, making it easily accessible – a small but significant improvement.
• Acquired a new table for the eat-in area, creating a comfortable spot for casual meals.
• Painted the walls, brightening the entire space.
• Updated the old kitchen lights. We’re still deliberating on the pendant near the stove, which might find a new home in our bedroom, but overall, the lighting is greatly improved.
• Painted the pantry door and the door leading to the garage, creating a cohesive look.
• Primed and painted all the woodwork and trim, giving the kitchen a fresh, clean finish.
• Painted/stained the cabinets. While they’re too worn to keep permanently, this update will serve us well until our full kitchen renovation, after which they’ll be repurposed in the garage.
• Removed the almond-colored microwave from above the stove and installed an inexpensive vent. The microwave has found a more discreet home in the pantry.
• Updated the old almond fridge and dishwasher with affordable fixes, including appliance paint and a panel change-out, significantly improving their appearance.
• Thoroughly organized the pantry by priming and painting it, then adding new shelves and baskets for optimal storage.
• Refreshed the old counters by applying concrete and sealing them, a cost-effective solution for a modern look.
• Future task (End of Phase 1): Update the old floors with peel & stick tile, similar to what we used in our first kitchen, providing a fresh, temporary flooring solution.
• Future task (Phase 2): Embark on a full kitchen renovation. This will include new heated tile floors, entirely new cabinetry, modern counters, brand-new appliances, and a stylish backsplash tile – a complete transformation.
• Future task: Convert the giant triple window behind the dining table into elegant French doors, leading directly onto our deck and enhancing indoor-outdoor flow.
• Future task: Open up the wall between the kitchen and living room, then add built-ins on either side, reminiscent of the dining room built-ins in our last house, for added functionality and design.
• Future task: Further enhance the pantry with pull-out drawers and potentially replace the door with frosted glass for a touch of sophistication.
• Future task: Amp up the “command center” area located across from the triple windows, making it a more organized and efficient space.
• Future task: Paint the new kitchen French doors and the door leading to the sunroom. We’re considering options like black, charcoal, soft turquoise, or a classic white.

Sunroom to Veranda Transformation (80% Complete)

Our sunroom is undergoing a dramatic metamorphosis into an inviting, open-air veranda, perfect for year-round enjoyment. We’re delighted to report that this ambitious project is 80% complete:

• Successfully ripped up the old carpet and padding, revealing the underlying structure.
• Permanently removed the broken base heater, creating more open space.
• Converted the sunroom into a beautiful open covered porch, replacing numerous faulty sliders with new columns. This vastly improved the structure and visual appeal, eliminating rotten posts in the process.
• Lofted the ceiling, creating a more expansive and airy feel.
• Installed charming beadboard on the ceiling and painted it a soothing soft blue, adding character and a touch of coastal charm.
• Redid the electrical system to accommodate two ceiling fans, ensuring comfort even on warmer days.
• Painted all the trim, window trim, walls, and the French door leading into the living room, achieving a cohesive and fresh look.
• Retiled the floor with outdoor-safe stone, upgrading the old concrete floors to be less slick, more level, and free from old stains, enhancing both aesthetics and safety.
• Future task: Install sconces on the posts around the room, providing ambient lighting for evenings.
• Future task: Build a discreet box to conceal the unsightly wires that currently creep down the brick wall near the French door.
• Future task: Furnish the room with durable, deck-friendly outdoor furniture, creating a comfortable and stylish lounging area.
• Future task: After opening up the sunroom, we’re considering building a charming brick outdoor fireplace off of it. We’re envisioning something inspired by this captivating outdoor fireplace concept, but with our own unique twist.

Our Bedroom Sanctuary (15% Complete)

Our master bedroom is envisioned as a tranquil sanctuary, and we’ve completed 15% of the initial foundational work:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed beautiful hardwoods, providing a classic and clean base.
• Repainted all the cream trim and doors to a crisp white, instantly brightening and modernizing the space.
• Added faux wood blinds to all windows, ensuring privacy and effective light blocking.
• Gave the walls a fresh coat of paint, setting a calm and serene tone.
• Future task: Repaint the ceiling. We’re also toying with more ambitious ideas like planking it for texture or even adding stylish wallpaper to create a unique design element.
• Future task: Consider adding built-ins along the entire bed wall, creating a cozy nook for the bed and integrating much-needed storage. Alternatively, we might opt for elegant window seats to maximize space and charm. More built-in storage would be an incredible asset.
• Future task: Install a ceiling light fixture, as the room currently lacks overhead lighting.
• Future task: Introduce art, curtains, and other decorative elements to complete the room’s aesthetic.
• Future task: A fireplace! This remains a Candice Olson-inspired pipe dream, but one we’d love to realize someday.

Bedroom Sink Nook Makeover (50% Complete)

This functional sink nook within our bedroom has seen significant progress, now at 50% completion, as we prepare for a future, more comprehensive renovation:

• Successfully ripped up the carpet in the sink area. We opted not to install hardwoods here, as our eventual plan is to tile this space.
• Replaced the old mirror over the sink with a larger, more impactful one.
• Painted the walls, trim, and ceiling, giving the area a fresh, cohesive look.
• Stenciled and sealed the subfloor, a clever temporary solution to tide us over until Phase 2, offering both protection and visual appeal.
• Added some simple shelves to the empty side of the vanity, creating balance and practical storage.
• Stained/painted the vanity and installed new hardware, giving it a completely refreshed appearance.
• Future task (Phase 2): A full renovation where we envision knocking down a wall to seamlessly combine the bathroom with this sink nook area, creating one expansive and luxurious space.

Our Bathroom Reimagined (30% Complete)

Our attached bathroom is on its way to becoming a spa-like retreat, with 30% of the initial work completed. These first steps are crucial preparations for a grander future renovation:

• Removed the dated glass shower door, immediately opening up the space.
• Ensured privacy for the window by installing stylish blinds.
• Stripped away all the old wallpaper, giving the walls a clean, fresh start.
• Painted the walls, trim, and ceiling, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
• Future task: Replace the current bathroom mirror and upgrade the lighting fixtures for an improved aesthetic and better illumination.
• Future task (Phase 2): Completely redo our attached bath down the line. The charming blue hex floor tile is unfortunately in rough shape, and we’re eager to expand the footprint by integrating it with the sink nook area, creating one cohesive, luxurious space. Imagine a sumptuous soaker tub, a beautifully tiled shower, and a functional double sink – it promises to be a truly exciting transformation!

Our Closet Transformation (40% Complete)

Our closet is evolving from a basic storage space into a highly organized and aesthetically pleasing dressing area. We’ve reached 40% completion, focusing on preparing the foundation for its ultimate design:

• Repainted all the existing cream trim, giving it a fresh and clean appearance.
• Painted the walls and ceiling, creating a bright and inviting backdrop.
• Successfully ripped up the carpet and stenciled the subfloor, a clever and cost-effective solution that provides both visual appeal and protection until our next phase.
• Future task (Phase 2): Extend the flooring from either the bathroom (tile) or the bedroom (hardwoods) into this space. The decision hinges on whether or not we decide to relocate the door, a crucial planning step.
• Future task: Install a new, elegant light fixture to brighten the space.
• Future task: Organize, build out, and fully customize the entire space. We envision sophisticated cabinetry with integrated drawers, diverse shelving options, and hanging rods at various heights to accommodate all our wardrobe needs – a true closet paradise!

Upstairs Hallway Overhaul (75% Complete)

The upstairs hallway, a central thoroughfare, is rapidly transforming into a bright, cohesive, and modern space. We are proud to announce it’s 75% complete, with most major elements tackled:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed gleaming hardwoods, creating a continuous, elegant flow throughout the upstairs.
• Repainted all the existing blue trim and doors to a glossy white, instantly refreshing the aesthetic.
• Replaced all the old hinges and door knobs. Many were bright brass, rusted, or corroded, making spraying an unsuitable option – a complete upgrade was necessary.
• Upgraded to a Nest thermostat. We’ve heard nothing but fantastic things about them, and John was practically drooling with anticipation for this smart home addition.
• Stained/painted the bannister and posts, providing a sophisticated contrast and renewed finish.
• Painted the walls and ceiling, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
• Replaced the old hallway lights with modern, energy-efficient fixtures, enhancing both brightness and style.
• Future task: Convert the existing hallway linen closet into practical built-in open shelves or cabinets with shelves above them. We’re envisioning something akin to this smart hallway storage solution.
• Future task: Add elegant crown molding to complete the polished look.
• Future task: Perhaps add thick wood wainscoting to the upstairs hallway, similar to what we have in the kitchen and living room. This could effectively break up the long space and add architectural interest.
• Future task: Curate and hang art along the hallway walls to personalize the space and add visual appeal.

Clara’s Dream Room (90% Complete)

Clara’s room is now a whimsical and comforting haven, almost entirely complete at 90%. We’ve poured love and creativity into every detail, making it truly her own space:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed beautiful hardwoods, providing a clean and durable foundation.
• Repainted all the existing blue trim and doors, transitioning to a brighter, child-friendly palette.
• Added window blinds and cheerful curtains, offering both light control and decorative flair.
• Painted the walls and ceiling, creating a soft and inviting backdrop.
• Created a magical canopy wall for Clara’s bed, complete with enchanting lights, making her bed feel like a special hideaway.
• Painted the door to her closet a vibrant bright pink, adding a fun pop of color.
• Installed elegant crown molding, giving the room a polished finish.
• Hung art and brought in beloved items like her play kitchen, anticipating the move of her crib to the nursery.
• Future task: Transform her deep, sloped-ceiling closet into a delightful little playhouse within her room, maximizing its unique shape for imaginative play.
• Future task: Install a ceiling light fixture, as the room currently, disappointingly, lacks overhead lighting.

Nursery Nook (90% Complete)

The nursery, a sweet and serene space for our newest arrival, is also nearing completion at 90%. We’ve thoughtfully designed every element to be both functional and enchanting:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed lovely hardwoods, ensuring a clean and easily maintainable floor.
• Repainted all the existing mauve trim and doors, transitioning to a calming and neutral palette.
• Added wood blinds for effective light blocking and hung soft, charming curtains to complete the window treatments.
• Furnished the room with essential items: a cozy rug, the crib, a functional changing area, a dedicated toy zone, and a comfortable chair perfect for nursing.
• Constructed thoughtful built-ins on either side of the crib. These are designed to accommodate a future twin bed lengthwise or a full/queen bed widthwise, ensuring the room grows with our child.
• Installed elegant crown molding, adding a refined touch to the space.
• Repainted the walls and ceiling, creating a soft and cohesive backdrop.
• Crafted a charming crib skirt and a whimsical mobile, hung art, and added other personal touches to make the room unique.
• Painted the door a fun, inviting color, perhaps a soft green, similar to Clara’s room, and thoroughly organized the closet for maximum efficiency.
• Future task: Install a ceiling light fixture, as this room, too, currently lacks overhead illumination – a minor but important finishing touch.
• Future task: Add final touches, such as lining the curtains with blackout fabric, getting a plush changing pad cover, and incorporating something special on the crib wall to complete the cozy feel.

The Guest Bedroom Retreat (12% Complete)

Our guest bedroom, destined to be a comfortable and versatile space, is currently at 12% completion. We’ve tackled the initial, crucial steps of renovation and organization:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed beautiful hardwoods, creating a fresh and durable floor.
• Repainted all the existing cream trim and doors, instantly brightening the room.
• Successfully organized the closet, which was previously overflowing with gift wrapping supplies, fabric, sewing essentials, and craft items – a major decluttering win!
• Cleared out all the accumulated junk in this room, which had frankly exploded with items when we tackled the nursery. This was achieved just 48 hours before Teddy’s birth, making it ready just in time for Nonna’s arrival – talk about last-minute efficiency!
• Future task: Paint the walls and ceiling, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere.
• Future task: Add elegant crown molding to complete the room’s polished look.
• Future task: Install a ceiling light fixture, as, surprisingly, there’s nothing there currently!
• Future task: Bring in a comfortable bed and a versatile dresser/desk combination that can accommodate my sewing machine. This room boasts the prettiest views and natural light, making it an ideal multi-tasking space where I’d love to indulge in sewing on Sunday afternoons.

Hall Bathroom Modernization (8% Complete)

The hall bathroom, a functional space for guests and family, is beginning its transformation at 8% completion. Our immediate focus is on a mini-update, with a full renovation planned for later:

• Future task: Paint the door and all the existing trim, modernizing its appearance.
• Future task: Paint the walls and ceiling, creating a fresh and clean backdrop.
• Future task (Phase 1): Replace the faucets and mirrors and lights for a quick, impactful update that significantly refreshes the space without a full overhaul.
• Future task (Phase 2): A complete redo is definitely in order. The old tile is stained and cracked, and the tub and fixtures leak, indicating a need for a comprehensive renovation. We’re dreaming of possibilities like elegant herringbone slate, luxurious marble, or perhaps extra-long rectangular tiles like this sleek tile style. The options are exciting!

Laundry Nook Upgrade (20% Complete)

Our laundry nook, often an overlooked utility space, is being transformed into a stylish and efficient area. At 20% completion, we’ve already made significant practical upgrades:

• Removed the old carpeting and installed beautiful hardwoods, creating a cohesive and upgraded look.
• Replaced the old washer and dryer with more energy-efficient models. This project was accelerated when the washer unexpectedly died, prompting a faster upgrade than anticipated.
• Installed a sturdy foundation under the washer and dryer. We used stained and sealed wood planks, similar to our previous house, to add stability and seamlessly blend with the new hardwoods.
• Future task: Completely redo the nook, installing new doors for improved noise control and new cabinets/shelving. Alternatively, we might reuse and enhance the existing ones for increased storage and functionality.
• Future task: Add a swanky tile backsplash and some captivating art/lighting. My goal is to make it a fun, little surprise jewel box at the end of the hallway – a truly unexpected design moment.

Unfinished Storage Room: Future Dreams (0% Complete)

This spacious unfinished room currently serves as an excellent storage area, and for now, we have no immediate need for additional finished rooms. However, the future holds exciting possibilities, though this project remains at 0% completion for now. Down the line, we’d absolutely love to finish it, perhaps as a dedicated movie room or a fun bunk room for older kids. This is definitely a long-term dream, but we love to envision its potential transformation, which includes:

• Adding drywall to create finished walls.
• Installing appropriate flooring for comfort and aesthetics.
• Adding proper lighting fixtures.
• Possibly enlarging the windows to allow in more natural light, making the space feel more open.
• Building out the closets under the eaves to retain some valuable storage space.
• Furnishing the space with comfortable built-in beds, a large TV, and a big sectional for ultimate lounging – wahoo!

General Whole House Enhancements (7% Complete)

Beyond individual room projects, we have a continuous list of whole-house improvements that steadily enhance our home’s efficiency and aesthetic over time. We’ve made 7% progress on these broader goals:

• Ongoing task: Slowly but surely upgrade all light fixtures throughout the house to energy-efficient LEDs, contributing to long-term energy savings.
• Ongoing task: Systematically replace all the outdated gold, wallpapered, or off-white switchplates and outlets. We’ve already replaced approximately 50% of them, significantly modernizing the electrical finishes.
• Ongoing task: Over time, upgrade to higher quality frames, drapes, sheets, and curtain rods. While these items are not inexpensive, we aspire to be “grown-ups” someday, even if it takes us a decade or so to get there! This is a long-term investment in comfort and style.

Back Deck Rejuvenation (50% Complete)

Our back deck is being transformed into a versatile outdoor living space, perfect for entertaining and relaxation. We’re happy to report that the deck rejuvenation is 50% complete, having tackled crucial structural and aesthetic elements:

• Successfully removed the giant oak tree that was dangerously growing too close to the house, ensuring structural safety.
• Expertly patched the hole in the deck left by the tree’s removal, restoring its integrity.
• Stripped and thoroughly stained/sealed the entire deck, protecting the wood and enhancing its natural beauty.
• Replaced any rotten or warped boards as we worked, ensuring a safe and sturdy surface.
• Future task: Add double-wide stairs off the back of the deck. These will be strategically aligned with the new French doors we plan to install off the kitchen, creating a seamless transition to the outdoors.
• Future task: Consider building a pergola for added architectural interest and welcome shade. This would be positioned off the back of the house, square to the sunroom, where the future kitchen French doors will be.
• Future task: Construct custom outdoor furniture, such as a large table or comfortable lounge chairs, to furnish the deck for optimal outdoor living.

Backyard Oasis in Progress (15% Complete)

Our backyard is a blank canvas, and we’re gradually shaping it into a lush, private, and family-friendly oasis. We’ve made 15% progress, focusing on foundational landscaping and strategic planting:

• Removed numerous random slate pieces from the backyard, clearing the way for a more unified design.
• Aerated and leveled the yard, creating a smoother, healthier base for the lawn.
• Successfully seeded the yard in the fall, initiating the growth of new grass.
• Planted large holly bushes, creating essential privacy from neighboring houses that our wooded lot backs up to.
• Future task: Transplant a few existing elements for a better layout, such as the beautiful peony bushes currently located in a somewhat random spot (not pictured).
• Future task: Reseed the yard again in the spring or fall to ensure a dense, healthy lawn.
• Future task: Build a fun and sturdy swing set for the kids to enjoy.
• Future task: Establish an edible garden. We’ll need to research what plants the local deer won’t devour to ensure a successful harvest.
• Future task: Redo the old, cracked concrete walkway that connects the garage to the deck, improving both safety and aesthetics.
• Future task: Add more privacy plantings around the rest of the yard. This will involve tiered trees, various bushes, and colorful flowers, a project we plan to save up for and expand upon each year.
• Future task: Construct some raised planters and incorporate additional hardscaping elements to define garden areas and pathways.
• Future task: Possibly add a dedicated patio area somewhere around the deck, creating another zone for outdoor relaxation and entertainment.
• Future task: Collaborate with Clara to build a charming wooden lean-to in a corner of the backyard, then plant climbing vines to grow around it, creating a cool, secret hideaway for play.
• Future task: Construct a stylish air conditioner cover using wood boards, similar to this clever design, to blend the unit seamlessly into the landscape.

When we share this extensive list, a common question arises: “How do you choose what to do next, or what order to tackle things in?” Our approach is quite simple and flexible: we generally prioritize whatever project sounds most enjoyable at the moment and aligns with our current budget. Of course, any task that becomes a safety concern or falls under extreme urgency immediately jumps to the top. We’ve found that constantly jumping between different types of projects helps maintain our momentum and prevents burnout. Instead of getting bogged down by ten consecutive weeks of minor kitchen updates, we recently painted and stained the cabinets over the holidays, and more recently, dove back in to update the counters with Ardex. This variety keeps things fresh and exciting.

As for what’s next on our radar, we’re particularly keen to:

• • Continue adding storage and functionality in the freshly painted office, making it even more efficient.
  • Put the finishing touches on the nursery, ensuring it’s completely ready.
  • Organize and paint the guest room, transforming it into a welcoming space for visitors.
  • Eliminate the last of the blue trim in the dining room, bringing it closer to our updated vision.
  • Get back outside for some privacy planting as soon as the weather warms up just a little more.

So, what does your own to-do list look like these days? Is it as extensive and detailed as ours? Do you keep everything meticulously organized in your head? Or do you prefer just a few “on deck tasks” to prevent feeling overwhelmed? For some reason, I find that writing everything down, simply to get it out of my head, gives me a profound sense of control. It allows John and me to zero in on a few “next projects” and confidently push the rest into the background of our minds, knowing they’re noted and waiting their turn.